Apple has released iOS 17.3, a major update to the iOS operating system that introduces new features and bug fixes for iPhone users. The update, which was delayed due to some issues, is now available for download and installation. Here are some of the highlights of iOS 17.3:
Stolen Device Protection: A New Layer of Security for Your iPhone and Apple ID
One of the most notable features of iOS 17.3 is Stolen Device Protection, which increases the security of your iPhone and Apple ID by requiring Face ID or Touch ID authentication for certain actions. This feature is designed to prevent thieves from accessing your saved passwords, changing your critical settings, or erasing your device.
Stolen Device Protection is an opt-in feature that can be turned on in the Settings app by going to Face ID > Passcode and toggling on Stolen Device Protection. Once enabled, you will need to use Face ID or Touch ID to perform the following actions:
- Viewing or using passwords or passkeys saved in iCloud Keychain
- Applying for a new Apple Card
- Viewing an Apple Card virtual card
- Turning off Lost Mode
- Erasing all content and settings
- Taking certain Apple Cash and Savings actions in Wallet
- Using payment methods saved in Safari
- Using your iPhone to set up a new device
Additionally, some actions will require Face ID or Touch ID, an hour wait, and then another successful biometric authentication before they can be performed. These actions include:
- Changing your Apple ID password
- Updating select Apple ID account security settings, such as adding or removing a trusted device, trusted phone number, Recovery Key, or Recovery Contact
- Changing your iPhone passcode
- Adding or removing Face ID or Touch ID
- Turning off Find My
- Turning off Stolen Device Protection
These security delays are not required when you are in a trusted location, such as your home or work. Stolen Device Protection is available on all iPhones that are able to run iOS 17, which includes the iPhone XS and newer.
Collaborative Apple Music Playlists: Share and Enjoy Music with Your Friends
Another new feature of iOS 17.3 is Collaborative Apple Music Playlists, which allows you to invite your friends to join your playlist and add, reorder, and remove songs. You can also add emoji reactions to any track in a collaborative playlist.
To create a collaborative playlist, you need to open the Music app, tap on Library, and then tap on Playlists. Then, tap on the plus icon to create a new playlist or tap on an existing playlist to edit it. Next, tap on the three-dot icon and select Collaborate. You can then invite your friends to join your playlist by sending them a link via Messages, Mail, or other apps. You can also turn off collaboration at any time by tapping on the three-dot icon and selecting Stop Collaborating.
To join a collaborative playlist, you need to open the link that your friend sent you and tap on Add. You can then view the playlist in the Music app and add, reorder, and remove songs as you wish. You can also tap on the heart icon to add an emoji reaction to any track in the playlist.
Collaborative Apple Music Playlists is a fun and easy way to share and enjoy music with your friends. You can create playlists for different occasions, moods, genres, or themes, and discover new songs that your friends love.
Other Improvements: AirPlay Hotel Support, AppleCare & Warranty, and More
iOS 17.3 also includes the following improvements:
- AirPlay hotel support lets you stream content directly to the TV in your room in select hotels
- AppleCare & Warranty in Settings shows your coverage for all devices signed in with your Apple ID
- Crash detection optimizations (all iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 models)
- New Unity wallpaper honors Black history and culture in celebration of Black History Month
iOS 17.3 is a major update that brings new features and bug fixes to your iPhone. You can download and install it by going to Settings > General > Software Update. Make sure you have enough battery life and a stable Wi-Fi connection before updating.
